Record number of riders expected at 21st annual Zoo-de-Mackinac

A record number of riders are expected to roll into Harbor Springs this weekend to take part in the 21st annual Zoo-de-Mackinac.

HARBOR SPRINGS — A record number of riders are expected to roll into Harbor Springs this weekend to take part in the 21st annual Zoo-de-Mackinac.

Zoo-de-Mackinac attracts outdoor enthusiasts who ride their bikes 51 miles from Boyne Highlands in Harbor Springs, through Cross Village, and up to Mackinaw City on Saturday, May 22. Many then take a ferry to Mackinac Island for the night.

Riders also enjoy live music and swap stories with other participants.

“Last year we had 2,565 riders, and we already have 2,500 registered. And we always have another 450 to 550 who sign up in the last day or so,” said Greg Drawbaugh, one of the event’s organizers. “It’s definitely going to be a record setting year.”

Drawbaugh points to recent warm weather for the record turnout.

“It’s been such a nice spring, and I think that will also help with late registration,” Drawbaugh said. “Everyone just wants to get outside.”

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The ride also gives local businesses an early boost to summer tourism.

“The ride has really become a premier event for the area. It’s a nice ride and we have such a beautiful area for it,” said Peter Fitzsimons, executive director of the Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau. “The area is really becoming known as a great destination for cyclists. With the Little Traverse Wheelway and all the trails, it’s just one more thing that families can do while they’re up here.”

Riders will pedal through the rolling countryside while enjoying views of trillium covered forests, sandy beaches and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.

In Cross Village, riders will stop to have lunch at Legs Inn.

From there, they’ll continue on to Mackinaw City.

Both Fitzsimons and Drawbaugh believe that while Zoo-de-Mackinac has been known as just a big party in the past, its reputation is changing for the better.

“I think when it first started off, the riding was just an excuse to come up north and party,” Drawbaugh said. “While we still have parties, I think the real focus has become getting people outside to ride 50 miles along one of the most beautiful routes, and leave them feeling inspired. You don’t have to be a hard core athlete to take part, that’s what makes it so fun.”

Zoo-de-Mackinac kicks off Friday night with live music at the Zoo Bar at Boyne Highlands. The ride begins between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. on Saturday.

Late registration will take place from 8 p.m. to midnight on Friday and again from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturday outside the Zoo Bar.